New Rule Threatens Pre-Season Schedule
Last updated : 12 July 2004 By Andy Beill
A new FIFA rule states that a maximum of six substitutions may be made in friendly games played in front of a paying crowd. The rule has been imposed following international matches where managers such as Sven Goran Erikssen have been criticised for fielding different teams in each half.
However, club teams preparing for the new season see this as essential to prevent players getting exhausted from playing 90 minutes after two months off.
Peter Taylor is set to cancel tomorrow's visit to Bishop's Stortford and Friday's game at Canvey Island unless he is given permission to use more than six substitutes.
